Museum of Contemporary Art Krakow MOCAK: Visitor Info
MOCAK – Museum of Contemporary Art Krakow – is a well-known museum of contemporary art located a few kilometers outside the Old Town of Krakow. It is located in the buildings of Oskar Schindler’s former enamelware factory, which houses an even more famous museum. The entrance fee to the Mocak is low (about 5 to 6 euros in 2024).
The Mocak Museum exhibits mainly works by artists from the 21st century (contemporary art). Mostly this is art by Polish artists, but there are also works by other European artists. It is a rather large and modern museum, which has existed only since 2011. Many artworks in MOCAK deal with political issues such as flight and migration, currently (2023) also the war in Ukraine.
MOCAK’s permanent collection includes works by leading contemporary artists such as Mirosław Bałka, Wilhelm Sasnal and Krzysztof Wodiczko. These works address complex social and political issues, often linked to Poland’s historical experience and global contemporary issues.
Library and Bookstore: The museum also houses an extensive library with a focus on contemporary art. The bookstore offers a wide range of art-related publications, including exhibition catalogues, books on art theory and artist monographs.
Museum Architecture: The museum building is a stunning example of modern architecture, designed by Italian architect Claudio Nardi. It combines simple design with industrial elements that reflect the history of the area, which was once a site of heavy industry.
Directions to MOCAK Art Museum: It is about 4 kilometers from the central Main Market Square in the Old Town. It is only 2 kilometers from the famous former Jewish quarter Kazimierz. A cab ride, for example with Bolt or Uber, from the center of Krakow costs under 5 euros. This is easier than using public transport (streetcar).
Opening hours MOCAK Krakow: Monday is a day of rest. On other days 11 am to 7 pm, Friday to 8 pm.
Entrance fee MOPAK Museum Krakow: Very cheap for such a big museum: About 4 euros (20 zlody).
Surroundings Mocak Krakow: The Oskar Schindler Museum in the former factory of Oskar Schindler is next door (see our article).
In Polish, the name of the museum is: Muzeum Sztuki Współczesnej w Krakowie.
In German: Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow
In English: Museum of Contemporary Art in Kraków
MOCAK Krakow (Museum) Top 10
Permanent exhibition: MOCAK Collection
The collection includes works by important contemporary artists and deals with themes such as identity, consumption, history and media criticism.
Tip: The collection is regularly updated – there is always something new to discover.
Temporary exhibitions
MOCAK is known for its impressive temporary exhibitions that shed light on different aspects of modern art and society.
Tip: Find out about the current exhibitions on the museum’s website before you visit.
Library and reading room
A quiet place in the museum that offers an extensive collection of books on art, design and culture. Perfect for art lovers who want to delve deeper.
Interactive installations
The museum places great emphasis on interactive artworks where visitors can become an active part of the artwork.
Works by Polish artists
Discover Polish artists such as Wilhelm Sasnal or Krzysztof Wodiczko, who are internationally renowned and often address socially relevant topics.
Artwork “Live Factory 2” by Maria Stangret-Kantor
An impressive spatial artwork based on the idea of Tadeusz Kantor’s avant-garde theater art.
Sculptures in the outdoor area
The outdoor area of the museum is designed with large sculptures that enhance the overall experience and emphasize the connection to the surroundings.
Tip: Ideal for a walk, even if you are not visiting the museum.
MOCAK store
The museum store offers original souvenirs, art books and handmade designs that make ideal gifts.
Location: Old Schindler Factory
MOCAK was built on the site of the former Schindler factory, which gives the museum a special historical atmosphere.
Tip: Combine your visit with a detour to the Schindler Museum, which is located right next door.
MOCAK Café
After your visit, you can relax in the café and enjoy a snack or coffee. The modern ambience offers space for conversations about the exhibitions.